Orange Juice Bundt Cake (ACE – Orange, Carrot, Lemon Cake)

Orange Juice Cake is a soft, genuine and citrus-scented dessert, perfect for breakfast or a snack for adults and children: one slice after another will literally be sold out because it is so good and light. To make this very simple recipe, you use both the zest and the juice of two oranges and a lemon; to obtain the orange color, instead, you just need to blend the carrots with the sunflower seed oil. A very quick preparation because, after whipping the eggs with the sugar, you add all the other ingredients and only at the end you mix the mixture with the electric whisk.

Cooking, however, requires a little more patience: having a very moist consistency, at least 45 minutes are needed for the cake to dry; however, we recommend monitoring the cooking after about 40 minutes with a toothpick that should come out dry and without any residue of dough. The Ace cake takes its name from the vitamins A , C and E contained in citrus fruits and carrots, and recalls the well-known multivitamin fruit juice loved by all of us.

What is Orange Juice Cake?

The ACE Cake, inspired by the popular Italian "ACE" juice (a blend of orange, carrot, and lemon), is a vibrant and moist dessert celebrated for its unique combination of citrusy and earthy flavors. The name "ACE" refers to the vitamins A, C, and E, which are naturally present in its key ingredients. This cake is thought to have originated in Italy as a creative way to incorporate the beloved juice into a dessert, blending wholesome ingredients with traditional baking techniques. Known for its bright orange hue and refreshing taste, the ACE Cake captures the essence of Italian ingenuity in the kitchen, combining health-conscious elements with indulgent flavors. Over time, it has become a favorite for those seeking a light yet flavorful treat, often enjoyed as a breakfast cake or a mid-afternoon snack.

Pro Tips for The Best Orange Juice Cake

• Use a mild vegetable oil, like sunflower or light olive oil, to keep the cake moist without overpowering the delicate flavors.
• Mix the batter just until combined to avoid overworking the gluten, which can make the cake dense.
• Grease and flour the pan or use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make unmolding the cake easier.
• Place the cake in the center of the oven and avoid opening the door during baking to ensure it rises evenly.
• Allow the cake to cool before removing it from the pan to prevent cracking or crumbling.

Can I Use Just the ACE Juice Instead of The Fruits?

Yes, you can use cartoned ACE juice instead of fresh fruits and carrots, but the flavor and freshness may not be as vibrant. Cartoned juice can save time, but make sure to choose a high-quality juice with no added sugars or artificial flavors for the best results. Using fresh ingredients will give the cake a more natural taste, but cartoned juice is a convenient alternative if you're short on time.

Why Is My Cake so Dense and Crumbly?

The ACE cake might turn out dense and crumbly if the batter is overmixed, as this can overwork the gluten and prevent the cake from rising properly. Additionally, using too much flour or not enough liquid can dry out the batter, leading to a crumbly texture. Incorrect oven temperature or overbaking can also dry out the cake, making it dense.

Can I Freeze This Cake?

Yes, the Orange ACE cake can be frozen! Allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. For the best texture, avoid freezing if the cake is already glazed—add the glaze after thawing instead.

How to Store Orange Juice Cake

Ace cake can be stored at room temperature, in an airtight container or under a glass bell jar, for 4 days.

How to Make Orange Juice Cake

Peel the carrots, wash them and cut them into pieces. Transfer the carrots into pieces in a food processor.

Pour the sunflower seed oil with the carrots.

Close and blend them at maximum speed.

The carrot puree must be well mixed with the oil.

Break the eggs into a large bowl.

Add the sugar.

Beat with an electric whisk.

The egg and sugar mixture should be light and frothy.

Add the carrot puree.

Add the grated orange zest.

Also add the lemon zest.

Pour in the lemon juice.

Then, add in the orange juice.

Add the sifted flour.

Add the potato starch.

And finally, add the baking powder. Work the dough with an electric whisk to mix the powders evenly.

The batter for your cake is ready.

Pour the mixture into a greased and floured donut mold.

Bake in a preheated oven at 360°F/180°C for 45-50 minutes, checking for doneness with a wooden toothpick.

Take the cake out of the oven and let it cool in the pan.

Using a plate or lid, turn the cake upside down to remove it from the mold without risking to break it.

Let the cake cool completely on a plate or wire rack.

Turn it over again to give it its classic bundt cake shape.

Once completely cooled, sprinkle it with powdered sugar to decorate.

Enjoy!